New York Attorney General Faces Fraud Charges
NORFOLK, Va. – New York Attorney General Letitia James is due in court Friday to face charges related to a mortgage fraud case. This marks the third instance in recent weeks where someone who has publicly opposed President Trump is facing federal charges.
James was indicted earlier this month on charges of bank fraud and making false statements to a bank. The charges relate to a home purchase she made in Norfolk, Virginia, in 2020. These charges came soon after the official overseeing the investigation was replaced.
James, a Democrat who has frequently sued Trump, claims the indictment is a politically motivated attack.
The case centers on James’ purchase of a house in Norfolk. Prosecutors allege that she signed a document stating she would use the property as a second home for at least a year. However, they say she instead rented the house out, allowing her to get better loan terms than she would have for an investment property.
James previously pursued legal action against Trump, alleging he inflated the value of his properties to defraud banks.
The U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, Erik Siebert, resigned after reportedly resisting pressure to bring charges against James. He was replaced by Lindsey Halligan, a former Trump lawyer, who presented the case to the grand jury.
James’ lawyers have requested a court order to prevent prosecutors from sharing information about the case with the media outside of court. This request followed reports that Halligan had communicated with a reporter about the case.
Lawyers for James also intend to challenge Halligan’s appointment.
Separately, two other individuals who have been critical of Trump are also facing charges. Former national security adviser John Bolton pleaded not guilty last week to charges of mishandling classified information.
The Justice Department is also reportedly looking into mortgage fraud allegations against Democratic Senator Adam Schiff.
